'Power of the Dog' Director Jane Campion Apologizes to Venus & Serena Williams Over 'Thoughtless' Comments in Acceptance Speech

Jane Campion is apologizing to Venus and Serena Williams after her comments sparked backlash at the 2022 Critics Choice Awards over the weekend.

If you’re unaware, Jane picked up the Best Director honor at the show for The Power of the Dog and in her speech, noted that the tennis superstar sisters hadn’t had to compete against men as she does.

“I give my love out to my fellow — the guys. The nominees” before adding to presenters “Serena and Venus, you are such marvels. However, you do not play against the guys like I have to.”

Now, Jane is backtracking on her comments and issued an apology.

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In her statement, Jane admits that she “made a thoughtless comment equating what I do in the film world with all that Serena Williams and Venus Williams have achieved.”

“I did not intend to devalue these two legendary Black women and world-class athletes,” she added.

Jane continued: “The fact is the Williams sisters have, actually, squared off against men on the court (and off), and they have both raised the bar and opened doors for what is possible for women in this world. The last thing I would ever want to do is minimize remarkable women. I love Serena and Venus. Their accomplishments are titanic and inspiring. Serena and Venus, I apologize and completely celebrate you.”

Ahead of the show, Jane reacted to Sam Elliott‘s criticism of her movie.